I'm re-posting this question as I think it got lost in the discussion of the music: As a long-time fan of Dennis, I'd like for you to share any insights you have on Dennis in the 1968-1972 period. What was he like in that era when he decided to release the "Sound Of Free/Lady" single? How did that all come about and what were his long-term ideas? Just how did he come to be cast in "Two Lane Blacktop" and was there ever serious talks about any other movie roles? What was he like during "Sunflower" and what was the reason behind all the prolific writing he was doing then? How did "California Slide" not make it onto any BB's album? I'm just fascinated by this period of Dennis' life, as he was at such a creative peak. What was the motivation then, as Guercio & Karen Lamm were in the mid-70s? How was Dennis different then than in the mid-70s?

Wow that's a lot of questions! I'll let Ed answer them because he was there... and because I've already given my thoughts on nearly all of those questions in The Real Beach Boy book. I will say one thing...that was probably DW's physical peak, and his creative coming of age... so i can understand your interest. It was a golden period. Gotta get the kids to school now.
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